Blackdog Surfing

Our review

Blackdog is a family-run Byron surf school (since 2001) and one we'd recommend for anyone serious about learning over 5 days. $89 for a single day; $470 for a 5-day package (4 group lessons + 1 private) that takes most beginners from "what's a wave" to catching unbroken waves competently.

Family owned and operated, and a licensed NSW National Parks tour operator (Parks Eco Pass) teaching in Walgun Cape Byron State Conservation Area.

Who it suits: backpackers staying a week+ who want to actually progress; anyone doing the East Coast and stopping in Byron specifically for the surf; travellers who don't need premium packaging and just want a board, a wetsuit and decent coaching.

Pricing: 1-day $89, 2-day $170, 3-day $225, 5-day $470 (group lessons run about 3 hours). Includes a stand-up guarantee: if you don't stand up on your first lesson, you can come again for free.

Vs alternatives: Let's Go Surfing caps groups at 6 students per instructor for 2-hour lessons. Soul has the bundled surf-and-stay package convenience. Mojosurf is the multi-day social trip away from Byron. Blackdog's 5-day package mixes four 3-hour group lessons with a 2-hour private lesson.

The catch: branding and shop feel slightly older than the new boutique schools, which doesn't matter at all in the water but might surprise travellers expecting a polished retail experience. Booking via blackdogsurfing.com is direct (online or by phone).

For WHV holders staying in Byron a few weeks and wanting to actually progress, the 5-day package is worth a look.

Written by the Byron Bay Backpackers editorial team. Independent. No paid placement.